I am a highly motivated and skilled molecular plant breeder with a strong passion for disease resistance and sustainable solutions in crop improvement through innovative research, collaboration and capacity building. Disease resistance breeding is an integral part of crop improvement and therefore food security. I am also actively involved in the supervision and mentorship of postgraduate students, fostering research excellence and skills development. Training and development of future plant breeders through advancement and application of scientific knowledge, have become a purpose-driven goal.
Sharing and gaining knowledge from different sectors (students, staff, management, etc) of the system, have contributed to my advancement as academic leader. As Academic Departmental head of Plant Sciences, I have led departmental operations, which includes academic planning, staff management, staff promotions, and quality assurance. I also provide strategic leadership and direction; oversee a variety of research programmes and foster collaboration opportunities. Driving student and staff development is part of the portfolio, as well as to supervise postgraduate students and initiate innovation in curriculum development and research training.